The Ishpeming Fire Hall is pictured. (Journal file photo)

ISHPEMING – State Rep. Karl Bohnak, R-Deerton, testified Wednesday before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity in support of a $900,000 state grant he requested to help the city of Ishpeming replace its aging frontline pumper truck.

“So we are very thankful that our rep has gone to that on our behalf,” said Ishpeming’s Deputy City Manager/Finance Director Grant Getschow. “The 900,000 grant would go towards replacing an engine we are currently doing 50k worth of repair work. Without that grant money our funding would be coming from our improvement millage or general fund and to continue going forward… The grant money would be critical for our other projects and would also be a big contribution to public safety and the wellbeing of our community.”

The department serves approximately 8,200 residents in the city and three surrounding townships.

“Funding for some of our public safety needs is a little bit of a question mark, we could save up and use our millage fund or issue debts to fund things which comes with interest and long-term commitment,” said Getschow. “With this grant we could free up some of our funding sources that could go to the fire hall as well as other projects.”

The proposed grant, which Bohnak is advocating to include in the state budget, would fund the purchase of a modern, fully equipped pumper truck to improve emergency response capabilities.

“This equipment is in danger of failing when it’s needed most,” said Bohnak. “Replacing it with a modern, dependable vehicle will not only reduce long-term maintenance costs, but it will enhance firefighter safety and improve response times for the people of Ishpeming.”

Ishpeming’s current frontline truck is more than 20 years old and has become increasingly unreliable. Maintenance costs have climbed to over 30% of the truck’s total value, and firefighters are experiencing unacceptable delays and mechanical failures during emergency responses.

“The firefighters in Ishpeming are putting themselves on the line every day, and they deserve equipment they can count on,” said Bohnak. “This grant would help ensure they’re ready to protect our residents.”

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.